7. That show frequently used photos of politicians in the background

4. Yes, tight lips mean holding back the truth

It means he is nervous and engaged in willful deception.

"This can indicate extreme anxiety, withholding information and withholding aggression. Tight lips indicate you may be planning to keep the truth in. If you actually suck the lips part way in, you may be withholding anger. When you are nervous, your mouth becomes dry, and you lick your lips and swallow as you struggle to find the right words to say." -Patti Wood, CSP, holds a B.A. and MA in body language

Someone also mentioned the tongue flick or licking his lips profusely. That usually indicates falsehoods as an indicator of being extremely nervous.

14. I never heard of a master of arts degree in body language, or even a bachelor of arts degree in

19. This may help

Patti Wood, quoted in the OP, was a university instructor in communication for eleven years. Her B.A., Master's degree and doctoral course work are in Interpersonal and Organizational Communication.

Time Magazine cited her Body Language course at Florida State University as a top college course in the nation. It was so popular that over 150 students registered every semester and people in the community sat in on her lectures.

21. Fantastic resources! Many thanks.

I actually took several courses in Communication Analysis, the stuff one has to take to keep licenses current.
but much of the work has been done after I retired.
Sure comes in handy when watching the politicians!